If your teenager is serious about their future, you have probably heard of both the GED and the SAT. They sound similar — both are large exams, both are in English, and both require months of preparation. But they serve completely different purposes, and choosing the wrong one can mean a year of hard work aimed at the wrong goal.
What the GED is for
The GED, which stands for General Educational Development, is a credential that replaces a secondary school diploma. Students who did not complete high school — or whose school records are not recognised abroad — can take the GED to show they have the same knowledge as a high school graduate. It is a starting point, not a university entrance ticket.
The GED covers four subject areas: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. A passing score shows that a student is ready to enter the workforce or continue to further education. Some universities do accept the GED, but students usually need additional qualifications before they can apply.
What the SAT is for
The SAT is a university admissions test. It measures skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Colleges and universities — especially those in the United States — use SAT scores as part of their application process. Students who already hold a secondary school diploma and want to study abroad, or who are applying to international programmes, are the ones who need the SAT.
A strong SAT score does not replace a diploma. It works alongside one. Without a completed secondary education, even a very high SAT score will not secure a university place.
So which one does your child need?
The answer depends on where your teenager stands right now. These three questions can help:
- Has your child completed secondary school, or is there a gap in their education history? If so, the GED may come first.
- Does your child have a diploma and want to apply to university — particularly overseas? The SAT is the next step.
- Is your child still in school and planning for future university applications? SAT preparation can begin now.
Some students take both exams, in that order. They use the GED to fill a gap in their qualifications, then prepare for the SAT once they are ready to apply to university.
How SSELC can help
At SSELC, we offer preparation classes for both the GED and the SAT. Our teachers work with students at their current level, whether that means building the foundation needed to pass the GED or developing the reading and reasoning skills required for a competitive SAT score. We also help parents understand which path makes sense for their child before committing to a course.
If you are not sure which exam your teenager should focus on, visit our programmes page to learn more about GED and SAT preparation at SSELC.